enca - 2 days ago

Snake sightings rise as temperatures climb Estelle.Bronkhorst Thu, 10/30/2025 - 12:00 JOHANNESBURG - With summer temperatures on the rise, snake sightings are becoming more common across both suburban and rural areas.According to the KZN Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, September and October are particularly active months as many snake species begin mating and become more energetic.“Snakes rely on heat for energy, hunting, and mating,” said Nick Evans, director of the organisation. “Summer is also a peak feeding period, especially for snakes that prey on toads and frogs, which are active at this time of year.”Warmer nights and longer days also mean snakes are more likely to be on the move around sunset compared to the colder winter months.READ: Snake in the grass: Massive python rescued in KZNEvans said there have been numerous reports of different species being caught recently. “A few years ago, we were seeing more Black Mambas and fewer Mozambique Spitting Cobras. This summer, it’s the opposite,” he noted.Just this week, Evans and his team responded to three calls involving Mozambique Spitting Cobras, a Black Mamba, and several other species.Both the Black Mamba and Mozambique Spitting Cobra are highly venomous, with the Black Mamba considered the deadliest. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, avoid handling snakes, and contact professionals for safe removals.by Zininzi Mdukulwana

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